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Only two Force players will start for Australia in Saturday night's Tri Nation’s showdown with South Africa but lock Nathan Sharpe and flyhalf Matt Giteau arguably have the hopes of their side on their shoulders.
Giteau has excelled in every start under Robbie Deans and he will be looking to continue that form at Perth’s Subiaco Oval. Forget his short-lived stint at halfback or his flirtation with inside centre, Giteau is Australia's long term prospect in the number 10 shirt.
In the post Stephen Larkham-era, Giteau's first major test comes, fittingly, at his home ground. It won't be an easy one marking the confrontational Butch James, whose tackling style at times is reminiscent of a runaway bull. Flanker Schalk Burger is also expected to be in Giteau's face but if the Wallaby forwards can set a good platform then Giteau should come through the test unscathed.
He is streets ahead of his opposing number in skill and tactical nous and also has the luxury of a talented backline that should provide good scoring opportunities on what will hopefully be a typically dry Western Australian track.
Almost at the opposite end of the playing-style spectrum is Nathan Sharpe, quite possibly one of the most reliable players to don the green and gold jumper in the last decade. His task is hardly enviable, up against stand-in Springbok captain Victor Matfield and partner in crime Bakkies Botha.
An experienced and truly gritty campaigner, Sharpe is sure to be an important presence on Saturday. Sharpe locks an Australian scrum that is unlikely to cause major problems for the powerful Springbok pack but the Springboks can't rely on pushing power alone to win the test.
Sharpe’s role is crucial. The Wallabies will need to win the vast majority of their own lineouts if they hope to challenge the Springboks, and if Sharpe can steal some of the South African throws he may be able to turn the match.
A not-so-hot first half effort from the Wallabies may see an early entrance for the Force's bench-bound players Drew Mitchell and Ryan Cross.
Both are impact players and proven try-scorers and possess the attacking acumen and exhilarating step and speed that may be crucial if the chips are down. Whatever the situation when they take the field, both men will be determined to do enough to grab a starting spot later in the series.
By James Heffield, Betfair Rugby Journalist
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players have always been required to make up for the dead wood that the NSWRU offer up.
Originally Posted by GIGS20
